Cooperative Boards to Reserve One Seat for SCs/STs: Amit Shah

Swift Summary

• Union Cooperation Minister Amit Shah’s Proclamation: In the Lok Sabha, Amit Shah confirmed reservation of two seats for women and one seat for Scheduled Castes (SC) or Scheduled Tribes (ST) on boards of multi-State cooperative societies.
• Model Byelaws: Provisions ensuring inclusivity have been incorporated into model byelaws distributed to States/UTs concerning primary agricultural credit societies (PACS).
• Government Initiatives: schemes being implemented include PACS computerisation, grant-in-aid to strengthen cooperative sugar mills, and IT interventions for cooperatives. these benefit farmer members, including SC/ST farmers.
• Exemptions Explained: Exemptions were granted from SC/ST sub-plan allocations due to the nature of scheme implementation through cooperative societies.
• Rahul gandhi’s Query: Congress leader sought specifics on government actions addressing SC/ST participation in cooperative society formation.

Indian Opinion analysis

The government’s move to ensure representation for women and marginalized groups in multi-State cooperative societies aligns with broader efforts toward societal inclusion. reserving board seats could amplify their voices in decision-making processes within these cooperatives. Additionally, updates to model byelaws aim at streamlining equality at grassroots levels like PACS.

An importent element highlighted was the exemption granted in certain schemes related to ethanol plants. While exemptions appear justified based on operational necessities specific to cooperatives’ structure, it raises questions about equitable distribution under sector-specific plans intended for marginalized communities.

This initiative presents opportunities for heightened social equity but demands vigilant execution and monitoring to ensure its objectives are fully realized without lapses.

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